Windermerehttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts
12 Tips for Making Your Bedroom Cozier<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4347/content_content_Tips_for_Making_Your_Room_Cozier_Windermere.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 538px;" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>At the end of a long day, your bedroom should be a sanctuary of comfort that welcomes you in. But, as a room that guests rarely see and in which homeowners spend most of their time with their eyes closed, its upkeep frequently gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. Thankfully, there are some little design tricks that can make a big difference. Turn your bedroom into a restful retreat when you up its coziness factor with a few of these easy ideas.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Layer textures.</strong>&nbsp;Sheepskin rugs, a down comforter, plush pillows and knit blankets can add a softness to the room that will make you want to sink right in. Lift these textures upward, with a canopy, tufted headboard, billowy curtains and hanging textiles (like a weaving) so even the walls and ceiling feel snuggly.</li>
<li><strong>Pick the right paint.</strong>&nbsp;Dark, saturated colors make a room feel like it&rsquo;s embracing you, which is ideal for setting a sleepy environment. But if you&rsquo;re nervous to commit to a dark color on the wall, choose a pale dusty blue, sage green or another light natural color for a soothing tone (just steer clear of energetic hues). Have you ever wanted to sleep on a cloud? Go with all-white paint and decor which makes even a basic bedroom feel soft and spa-like.</li>
<li><strong>Personalize it with reminders of the places and things that make you feel at home.&nbsp;</strong>Do you have a fondness for flowers? Bring floral patterns in on your textiles. Do you dream of vacation at the lake? Frame a photo of your favorite spot! Photos or paintings of uncluttered natural landscapes&mdash;like a sunset reflecting on water or a hammock under the shade of an oak&mdash;can rekindle memories of relaxation and are perfect for creating a sense of calm.</li>
<li><strong>Add mood lighting.</strong>&nbsp;Soften the light to mimic dusk for an intimate mood with dimmer switches, lamps, lanterns or even string lights. Just make sure you can reach the switch from bed, so you don&rsquo;t have to disturb your peace to get up and turn it off when you&rsquo;re ready to roll over and fall asleep.</li>
<li><strong>Skip metallic finishes</strong>. Choose warm natural decor options like wood and fabric instead of cold, manufactured metallics. This goes for everything from your bedroom furniture to window treatments. Faux wood blinds, especially when paired with floating curtains, fit with a cozy aesthetic and let you filter out harsh sunlight and maintain privacy for a truly sheltered slumber.</li>
<li><strong>Bring on the books!</strong>&nbsp;Stacks of good reads invite you to snuggle in and get lost in another world. A true retreat is a room with plenty of books that begs you to stay.</li>
<li><strong>Fix up&mdash;or fake&mdash;a fireplace.</strong>&nbsp;If your bed sits hearthside, embrace this romantic accent with styled logs and a decorated mantle. If you don&rsquo;t have such a luxury, create a faux fireplace to add comfort and warmth through your d&eacute;cor: Arrange oversized candles and lanterns safely within a homemade hearth to bring in that cozy fireside feeling without changing the structure of your home.</li>
<li><strong>Keep the room uncluttered.</strong>&nbsp;When you want to settle in, a mess distracts you from finding comfort, so minimize the amount of stuff that makes it to your bedroom. Watch your nightstand, which often becomes a catch-all, by making a point to rehome any wandering wares now, and put things away as soon as they enter the room in the future. If you&rsquo;re apt to let laundry pile up, keep it behind the closed doors of your closet so it doesn&rsquo;t crowd your peace.</li>
<li><strong>Create a sense of timelessness.</strong>&nbsp;Tuck clocks and electronics away so they&rsquo;re nearby if you need them, but their wires and harsh silhouettes aren&rsquo;t reminding you of life outside your sanctuary. The hush that falls in a room devoid of gadgets will allow you to easily disengage from the stresses of reality.</li>
<li><strong>Rethink your bedding.</strong>&nbsp;Add a pillow-top pad to your mattress so it feels like your bed is hugging you when you climb in. Or, bring in a contoured body pillow which actually can hug you! Linen sheets feel luxe compared to cotton and are a simple swap to boost your bower. Many people also swear by skipping the top sheet while dressing their beds, which allows them to burrow directly into a fluffy comforter.</li>
<li><strong>Appeal to your sense of smell.</strong>&nbsp;Aromatherapy can have a huge impact on your perception of a space, so find some soothing essential oils or a sweet candle to blanket the room with an ambiance you adore. As soon as you open the door, you&rsquo;ll be eager to plunge into your little oasis.</li>
<li><strong>Nestle into nooks.</strong>&nbsp;A window seat, a reading nook or an upholstered seating area are all inviting spaces that can draw you in from the doorway. The more intimate alcoves you can create, the cozier your bedroom will feel!</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Flooded with soft lighting, plush textures and other comfy touches, your bedroom environment will envelope you at day&rsquo;s end. And, perhaps even better than the idea of your bedroom refresh itself, is knowing that none of these tips take longer than a weekend to complete! So, slide into your slippers as you settle on which cozy updates you&rsquo;ll select for your new favorite room of the house.</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1740/thumb_content_Tips_for_Making_Your_Room_Cozier_Windermere.jpg12 Tips for Making Your Bedroom Cozierhttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/12-tips-for-making-your-bedroom-cozier--2
Mon, 19 Mar 2018 11:00:00 -0700http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/12-tips-for-making-your-bedroom-cozier--2
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/12-tips-for-making-your-bedroom-cozier--2A Home Addition: What to Consider Before Starting to Build<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4345/content_content_dreamstime_m_30551120.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 467px;" /></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Adding on to your current home may be your best bet if you&rsquo;re short on space, but you don&rsquo;t want to move or can&rsquo;t find another house in the area with all the qualities you&rsquo;re seeking. It&rsquo;s also an attractive option if the house you have is lacking just one significant element (a family room, another bedroom, a larger kitchen, a separate apartment, etc.).</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">On the other hand, even a modest addition can turn into a major construction project, with architects and contractors to manage, construction workers traipsing through your home, hammers pounding, and sawdust everywhere. And although new additions can be a very good investment, the cost per-square-foot is typically more than building a new home, and much more than buying a larger existing home.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: VegurMedium, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Define your needs</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">To determine if an addition makes sense for your particular situation, start by defining exactly what it is you want and need. By focusing on core needs, you won&rsquo;t get carried away with a wish list that can push the project out of reach financially.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">If it&rsquo;s a matter of needing more space, be specific. For example, instead of just jotting down &ldquo;more kitchen space,&rdquo; figure out just how much more space is going to make the difference, e.g., &ldquo;150 square feet of floor space and six additional feet of counter space.&rdquo;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">If the addition will be for aging parents, consult with their doctors or an age-in-place expert to define exactly what they&rsquo;ll require for living conditions, both now and over the next five to ten years.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: VegurMedium, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Types of additions</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Bump-out addition&mdash;&ldquo;Bumping out&rdquo; one of more walls to make a first floor room slightly larger is something most homeowners think about at one time or another. However, when you consider the work required, and the limited amount of space created, it often figures to be one of your most expensive approaches.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">First floor addition&mdash;Adding a whole new room (or rooms) to the first floor of your home is one of the most common ways to add a family room, apartment or sunroom. But this approach can also take away yard space.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Dormer addition&mdash;For homes with steep rooflines, adding an upper floor dormer may be all that&rsquo;s needed to transform an awkward space with limited headroom. The cost is affordable and, when done well, a dormer can also improve the curb-appeal of your house.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Second-story addition&mdash;For homes without an upper floor, adding a second story can double the size of the house without reducing surrounding yard space.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Garage addition&mdash;Building above the garage is ideal for a space that requires more privacy, such as a rentable apartment, a teen&rsquo;s bedroom, guest bedroom, guest quarters, or a family bonus room.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: VegurMedium, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Permits required</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">You&rsquo;ll need a building permit to construct an addition&mdash;which will require professional blueprints. Your local building department will not only want to make sure that the addition adheres to the latest building codes, but also ensure it isn&rsquo;t too tall for the neighborhood or positioned too close to the property line. Some building departments will also want to ask your neighbors for their input before giving you the go-ahead.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: VegurMedium, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Requirements for a legal apartment</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">While the idea of having a renter that provides an additional stream of revenue may be enticing, the realities of building and renting a legal add-on apartment can be sobering. Among the things you&rsquo;ll need to consider:</p>
<ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 20px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; border: none;">Special permitting&mdash;Some communities don&rsquo;t like the idea of &ldquo;mother-in-law&rdquo; units and therefore have regulations against it, or zone-approval requirements.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; border: none;">Separate utilities&mdash;In many cities, you can&rsquo;t charge a tenant for heat, electricity, and water unless utilities are separated from the rest of the house (and separately controlled by the tenant).</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; border: none;">ADU Requirements&mdash;When building an &ldquo;accessory dwelling unit&rdquo; (the formal name for a second dwelling located on a property where a primary residence already exists), building codes often contain special requirements regarding emergency exists, windows, ceiling height, off-street parking spaces, the location of main entrances, the number of bedrooms, and more.</li>
</ul>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">In addition, renters have special rights while landlords have added responsibilities. You&rsquo;ll need to learn those rights and responsibilities and be prepared to adhere to them.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: VegurMedium, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Average costs</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">The cost to construct an addition depends on a wide variety of factors, such as the quality of materials used, the laborers doing the work, the type of addition and its size, the age of your house and its current condition. For ballpark purposes, however, you can figure on spending about $200 per square food if your home is located in a more expensive real estate area, or about $100 per food in a lower-priced market.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">You might be wondering how much of that money might the project return if you were to sell the home a couple years later? The answer to that question depends on the aforementioned details; but the average &ldquo;recoup&rdquo; rate for a family-room addition is typically more than 80 percent.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: VegurMedium, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">The bottom line</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">While you should certainly research the existing-home marketplace before hiring an architect to map out the plans, building an addition onto your current home can be a great way to expand your living quarters, customize your home, and remain in the same neighborhood.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; word-wrap: break-word; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: VegurLight, VegurRegular, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">&nbsp;</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1738/thumb_content_dreamstime_m_30551120.jpgA Home Addition: What to Consider Before Starting to Buildhttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/a-home-addition-what-to-consider-before-starting-to-build--2
Mon, 12 Mar 2018 11:00:00 -0700http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/a-home-addition-what-to-consider-before-starting-to-build--2
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/a-home-addition-what-to-consider-before-starting-to-build--2Myths and Truths About Millennial Home Buyers<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4340/content_Myths_and_Truths_About_Millennial_Home_Buyers_Featured_Photo.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 451px;" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>In recent years there has been a lot written about millennials and their impact on the housing market. Because of this, there are also a lot of misconceptions about what this generation wants from a home. To start, it&rsquo;s important to know that there are more than 71 millennials, which are defined as those aged 22-37. They also represent 34 percent of all home buyers which makes them tremendously important to the real estate market. We were curious if what we&rsquo;ve read about millennial home buying habits is true and here&rsquo;s what we found.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Simple, Functional, Minimal Maintenance</strong></p>
<p><strong><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4341/content_Myths_and_Truths_About_Millennial_Home_Buyers_Simple_Photo.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 564px;" /></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Millennials do not appear to be drawn to fixer uppers in the same way as prior generations. They want something that is &ldquo;move-in&rdquo; ready with minimal maintenance. They also value simplicity and function over extravagance which means they&rsquo;re drawn to spaces that serve dual purposes and furniture that doubles as storage. The old adage &ldquo;less is more&rdquo; takes on new meaning for millennial buyers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Location</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4342/content_trip-planning-test.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 458px;" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Similar to older generations, millennials place a great deal of importance on location. The convenience to their job, friends, family, entertainment, and shopping is a must. But the rumor out there that they only want to live in city dwellings is a myth. Millennials are getting older and starting to have families, so like prior generations, many of them are moving away from the hustle and bustle of the city and into nearby neighborhoods with good schools and family-friendly amenities.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Digitally Engaged</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4343/content_dreamstime_test_echo.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 467px;" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Millennials have grown up surrounded by technology, so smart home technology is a high priority for these buyers. And they&rsquo;re willing to pay more for it: a survey conducted by Wakefield Research states that millennials are willing to pay a 20 percent premium for smart home technology, such as voice assisted devices, smart phone-controlled security systems, electronic door locks, and doorbell cameras.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Experience over Luxuries</strong></p>
<p><strong><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4344/content_Friends_Talking_Photo.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 466px;" /></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>One of the main things we&rsquo;ve learned about millennials is that they are not prone to conformity. They&rsquo;re a practical bunch who places a very high priority on experiences and quality of life. Studies show that millennials would rather have discretionary income to pay for things like healthy food, gym memberships, and international travel than blowing their budget on an expensive home. In other words, they&rsquo;re happy with a modest space so they have money left to spend on their quality of life.</p>
<p>In the end, millennial buyers aren&rsquo;t <em>that</em> different from prior generations. They&rsquo;re clearly a pragmatic group that sees their home more as a functional space than a symbol of their success. Technology definitely plays a far greater role for them than their baby boomer parents, but ultimately they still want a home in a nice neighborhood with good schools and access to friends, family, and nearby amenities.</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1737/thumb_Myths_and_Truths_About_Millennial_Home_Buyers_Featured_Photo.jpgMyths and Truths About Millennial Home Buyershttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/myths-and-truths-about-millennial-home-buyers
Wed, 07 Mar 2018 11:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/myths-and-truths-about-millennial-home-buyers
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/myths-and-truths-about-millennial-home-buyersGardening Trends For 2018<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4331/content_Garden_Trends_2018.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 386px;" /></p>
<p>Outdoor living during the spring and summer months is extremely popular. Months of cold, wet winters are followed by glorious spring colors and warm summer days of vivid blue skies. In this post, we thought that now would be the best time to share some pretty garden trends for 2018.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Wabi-Sabi</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4332/content_wabi_sabi.jpeg" style="width: 700px; height: 466px;" /></p>
<p>Leisure time should be just that: relaxing and rejuvenating. So why labor relentlessly to create and maintain a perfect landscape? Wabi-sabi, is the Japanese art of accepting transience and imperfect beauty. Relax and appreciate nature as it is, with humble imperfections, weeds and all. Recognize (and tell others) that dandelions and clover in untreated lawns are not blights. They are status symbols for ecological horticulture. Consider natural grasses and groundcovers as low-maintenance substitutes for sod. Opt for perennials instead of annuals, let flowers go to seed and give nature license to evolve on her own.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Reclaiming Small Outside Spaces</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4335/content_small_spaces.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 525px;" /></p>
<p>For many of us these days, space is at a premium and with house prices continually on the rise, more and more people are living in apartment blocks or tiny lots. Garden designers are determined to make even the smallest of spaces useful and attractive, and manufacturers have taken notice. Look for a better choice in planters that slot onto balcony rails. New models will have coverings for protecting plants from cold temperatures so that you can even grow seeds and vegetables on your balcony alongside your flowers.</p>
<p>Self-watering wall planter systems have been improved for 2018 and the hanging macram&eacute; plant holder is having a bit of a revival. Add a small patio heater and you have an outside space you can enjoy all year round with minimal effort.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Purple Passion</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4334/content_purple_passion.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 491px;" /></p>
<p>Pantone&rsquo;s Ultra Violet is the color of the year. Maybe that&rsquo;s why you find purple flowers in this year&rsquo;s plant varieties and garden design. It&rsquo;s easy to incorporate this color in the garden as there are many flowers and shrubs with this beautiful color. However, there are also several edible purple plants that you can grow. Purple vegetables are not only interesting and pretty, their unique color denote anthocyanins which are very beneficial to your health.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Re-Wilding</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4336/content_re-wilding.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 467px;" /></p>
<p>This is a style that keeps popping up time and again. However, 2018 has taken the re-wilding trend up another notch. It is still all about working with nature, growing wildflowers and supporting our pollinating insects. Re-wilding means adjusting plant selections to better support local wildlife and growing both seed-producing and berry-bearing plants. However, now it is also about using &lsquo;green&rsquo; gardening products, natural solutions to bug and slug killers instead of chemicals and insecticides and using peat-free products.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Alfresco Living</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4337/content_Alfresco_living.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 466px;" /></p>
<p>Outdoor entertaining and kitchen areas are tipped to be a key trend for Spring/Summer 2018. We are not talking about a little nook corner just off the kitchen. Alfresco dining spaces are being pushed out into the garden itself and made into a major feature. These dedicated outdoor dining areas are surrounded by in-ground and container plants for that lush feeling. Special flooring, comfy furniture and mood lighting turn it into a little haven. Complete the trend with a sunken fire pit, barbecue or pizza oven and you might never want to leave.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Lighting The Way</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4338/content_Backyard-Lighting.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 1051px;" /></p>
<p>Adding lighting to your garden is not a new thing. However, in this age of renewable energy, garden lighting companies are turning away from the more traditional lighting solutions we have seen in the past. The advances in solar energy capture, means that we can light up our gardens in a variety of fun, affordable and better ways. No more changing batteries or wiring up the garden with electricity.</p>
<p>The wide range of lighting methods allows you to create whatever ambience you want. Simple stand-alone lights can mark pathways, either discreetly embedded into the path edges or standing loud and proud along the side. Multi-colored fairy lights can be tangled among the overhead branches of a tree creating dazzling shapes and textures. Solar Mason jars can be hung from above or used as table lighting. Festoon lights can create an ambient glow around any outdoor space creating romantic nooks.&nbsp;</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1736/thumb_Garden_Trends_2018.jpgGardening Trends For 2018http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/gardening-trends-for-2018
Mon, 05 Mar 2018 11:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/gardening-trends-for-2018
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/gardening-trends-for-2018February Home Maintenance Checklist<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(64, 64, 64);"><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4325/content_Screen_Shot_2018-02-26_at_8.46.36_AM.png" style="width: 600px; height: 398px;" /></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(64, 64, 64);">It&rsquo;s February &ndash; winter&rsquo;s not over yet, but spring is right around the corner. If you have cabin fever from being inside, cleaning and freshening up your house can help you get through this last month of winter and be ready to get outside when spring arrives.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(64, 64, 64);">Once you check these items off your to-do list, you&rsquo;ll be able to relax by the fire with a good book and enjoy the last few weeks of winter.</p>
<ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em 3em; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; color: rgb(64, 64, 64);">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Mop entryway floors.</strong>&nbsp;Clean your floors regularly to prevent damage from road salt and melting snow. Place a basket of old towels near the door to wipe up water and salt as soon as it is tracked inside.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Rotate or flip your mattress</strong>. Extend the life and comfort of your mattress by flipping or rotating it. At the same time, vacuum box springs and the mattress to eliminate allergy causing dust- mites.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Organize your laundry room.</strong>&nbsp;Scrape dried-on laundry detergent from the ridges in your washer. Throw away laundry products you never use and replace damaged sorting bins.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Clean out your spice cabinet.</strong>&nbsp;Throw away expired spices and other seasonings, which may not only lose their taste, but could harbor mold and bacteria.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sanitize hand-held devices.</strong>&nbsp;Prevent germs that cause the spread of colds and the flu by disinfecting your phone, remote controls, tablets, as well as your door and cabinet knobs.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dust blinds, ceiling fans and fixtures.</strong>&nbsp;Wipe down or use a feather duster to remove the dirt that builds up on blinds, ceiling fans, light fixtures other small electronics.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Add color to your table.&nbsp;</strong>Treat yourself to some fresh flowers to add cheer to your kitchen table while waiting for spring blooms to make their first appearance.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Plan your summer vacation.</strong>&nbsp;Reserve your vacation home now to get the best selection of available properties. Start your planning today at Long &amp; Foster&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://lfvacations.com/" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(164, 13, 44); text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><u style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;">Vacation Rentals website</u></a>.</li>
</ul>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1734/thumb_Screen_Shot_2018-02-26_at_8.46.36_AM.pngFebruary Home Maintenance Checklisthttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/february-home-maintenance-checklist
Mon, 26 Feb 2018 11:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/february-home-maintenance-checklist
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/february-home-maintenance-checklist5 Creative Ways to Dress Up a Ceiling<p>A crisp white ceiling is a classic look, but it&rsquo;s not the only option for making a room look polished. Here are a few other design considerations to bring some personality to your ceiling.</p>
<p>The sky is the limit when it comes to the amount of creativity and beautiful layering you can put into creating a decorative statement on the ceiling. But before we discuss the many stylish or unusual treatments to consider, let&rsquo;s start with a classic finish you&rsquo;ve probably seen before.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4316/content_Ceiling1.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Ceiling 1</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/yanicsimard/toronto-interior-design-group-yanic-simard" target="_blank">Toronto Interior Design Group | Yanic Simard</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Exposed Concrete</strong></p>
<p>In my own design projects, I find many clients are excited to remove a popcorn ceiling treatment, and this is usually my preference as well. The results can be subtle, yet striking.</p>
<p>In some cases, the results can be dramatic. Removing a popcorn ceiling, and the entire drywall layer above, can often reveal architectural finishes, such as a cool concrete surface.</p>
<p>An exposed concrete ceiling gives a room a bit of industrial, architectural flair, adding drama and texture in a modern way. Of course, not every home has a concrete ceiling to reveal, so it&rsquo;s important to speak with your designer or contractor before making any plans.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s also important to note that stripping a ceiling back to the concrete will leave no space for recessed ceiling lights. For this reason I usually include an area of dropped ceiling to allow potlights, define a gathering space or focal point and visually break up the look a bit.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4317/content_Ceiling2.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Ceiling 2</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/victoriagerts/victoria-gerts" target="_blank">Victoria Gerts</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Flat Drywall</strong></p>
<p>From my experience, the most popular contemporary ceiling style is the simple flat drywall ceiling. If a room includes other sound-absorbing materials like rugs, curtains or a fabric headboard, you can skip the acoustic ceiling treatment without worrying about echoes.</p>
<p>As I mentioned before, it is not always easy to achieve a perfectly crisp drywall ceiling, but skilled tradespeople can install either a new drywall ceiling or scrape the texture paint from an existing ceiling to reveal a much more sleek, modern surface.</p>
<p>Trimming a ceiling with crown molding painted to match the ceiling hue is a great alternative way to hide subtle imperfections in the slope of the ceiling and achieve a bright, airy, classic look.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4318/content_Ceiling3.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Ceiling 3</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/jntinteriors/jade-n-timmerman-interiors" target="_blank">Jade N Timmerman Interiors</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Paint</strong></p>
<p>A drywall ceiling doesn&rsquo;t only come in one shade, so while we&rsquo;re discussing this finish, let&rsquo;s touch on some differing paint choices.</p>
<p><strong>White.</strong> A white or just-off-white ceiling is popular because it&rsquo;s a great way to make any room feel open and airy and let light bounce from any windows or light fixtures back into the room.</p>
<p>For a contemporary or modern home, plain white can work great, but for a more traditional home or a space with definite warm tones (like this room with a lot of welcoming beige), choose a subtle off-white that complements the tone of the walls.</p>
<p>For a fun, trendy take, cheat the ceiling line a bit by starting the ceiling paint 12 to 24 inches down the wall (or only painting the walls up to that point, whichever way you think of it). The result is a breezy modern effect without using any bold hues or new materials.</p>
<p><strong>Gray.</strong> Using a darker hue on the ceiling than on the walls visually brings the ceiling down, which can make a room feel more intimate.</p>
<p>Using a neutral gray shade (or one with a hint of cool blue) achieves this effect without drawing too much attention, so the room still feels serene and sophisticated.</p>
<p>This makes gray a great choice for bedrooms, dens and nurseries, bringing a peaceful, cozy atmosphere.</p>
<p><strong>Accent colors.</strong> For a room with a unique personality, adding an accent color to the ceiling infuses a lot of drama in an unexpected spot.</p>
<p>I won&rsquo;t lie: As a DIY task, painting the ceiling is not nearly as easy as painting a wall, and even for professionals it usually requires the room be fully emptied first. So, it&rsquo;s best to be absolutely sure that you love a hue before applying it to the &ldquo;fifth wall.&rdquo; The upside is that the ceiling is often a relatively small surface area, meaning that splash of color is a more controlled dose than painting the walls.</p>
<p>While a painted ceiling is immediately noticeable in a room with stark white walls, when a room has a lot of interesting and eclectic finishes on other surfaces, a rich hue can actually blend in better than a white ceiling. It&rsquo;s a daring look for sure, but for those who love a lot of personality in their home, a colorful ceiling can be a very livable choice.</p>
<p>For the best of both worlds, a navy, deep teal or royal blue shade will feel dramatic but still appear neutral enough to not overwhelm you.</p>
<p><strong>Matching ceilings and walls.</strong> Painting the ceiling to match the walls may sound overwhelming, but sometimes it can actually be the more subtle choice. When the ceiling and the walls (or even just a few walls) are the same hue, the lack of contrast makes the ceiling less of a dramatic feature and more of a singular background color. Of course, this applies best to softer hues like gentle pink, watery blue or heritage butter yellow.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4319/content_Ceiling4.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Ceiling 4</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/yanicsimard/toronto-interior-design-group-yanic-simard" target="_blank">Toronto Interior Design Group | Yanic Simard</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I personally match the ceiling to the walls quite often when using light neutral shades. While it may appear white on your screen, the walls, ceiling and molding in this project are all Benjamin Moore&rsquo;s Classic Gray, a subtle, warm gray shade. In an older home, using an all-over hue is a great way to deemphasize imperfections such as sloped ceilings that don&rsquo;t meet walls in a perfectly straight line.</p>
<p><strong>Two-tone paint.</strong> Using a dark or dramatic paint color on the ceiling doesn&rsquo;t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Like the opposite of an area rug, painting just part of a ceiling can help define a particular zone. Lining up the edge or edges with another element in the room will help it make visual sense.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Paint Finishes</strong></p>
<p><strong>Semigloss. </strong>The higher the degree of gloss in a paint, the more visual depth it will have and the lighter the perceived color will be. So, when choosing a darker shade especially, selecting a semigloss or more subtle satin finish can make a color seem less aggressive and more multidimensional and help keep the paint from absorbing all of the light in the room.</p>
<p><strong>Matte.</strong> Matte and eggshell finishes represent the less-glossy end of the spectrum, and thus reflect less light. This will make a color seem more pure and vivid, and a bit darker. For those who don&rsquo;t want to shy away from a rich statement, a matte finish gives a crisp contemporary look.</p>
<p><strong>Gloss. </strong>Ultra-high-gloss paint is not easy to apply to a ceiling because it has a slower drying time and thus lots of opportunity to drip or become uneven. But it&rsquo;s not impossible for expert professionals, and the results can be stunning, especially when paired with sparkling ceiling fixtures and beautiful natural light.</p>
<p>Alternately, a &ldquo;stretched ceiling&rdquo; uses a layer of high-tech material suspended just below the true ceiling to create a gloss effect (or other finishes) that paint alone cannot achieve.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4320/content_Ceiling5.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Ceiling 5</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/legacycustomhomesinc/legacy-custom-homes-inc" target="_blank">Legacy Custom Homes Inc</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Paneling</strong></p>
<p>Wood planks are most often seen on the floor, but they look just as beautiful above.</p>
<p>While wood-paneled ceilings are often associated with cottages and farmhouses, they can work with a variety of styles of home. Panelling works well for transitional homes, especially in controlled doses like the small strip seen here, bringing texture and richness to the ceiling that a solid color can&rsquo;t match.</p>
<p>Generally, thinner strips of wood, and species with more knots, will appear more cottage-inspired, while wider planks or sheets, often with a less-grainy finish, will carry a more modern appearance.</p>
<p>Both types work well in kitchens with airy white or off-white cabinetry, taking a classic &ldquo;white kitchen&rdquo; and giving it added warmth and a natural appeal.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4321/content_Ceiling6.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Ceiling 6</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/webuser-371297/buchanan-construction" target="_blank">Buchanan Construction</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Pressed Tin</strong></p>
<p>While these panels are not necessarily made from tin, the pressed-tin look endures as a charming option for traditional kitchens, or contemporary or transitional kitchens that want to add some classic flair.</p>
<p>These panels can be visually quite dominant with their glam or antiqued finishes and busy patterning, so they work well in rooms with otherwise simple palettes, or as a small accent over an island or seating group.</p>
<p>To keep the look fresh and bright, try using classic tin panels with stainless steel appliances, so the primary metal tone repeats and the room feels cohesive.</p>
<h4>&nbsp;</h4>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1730/thumb_Ceiling1.jpg5 Creative Ways to Dress Up a Ceilinghttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/5-creative-ways-to-dress-up-a-ceiling
Fri, 16 Feb 2018 13:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/5-creative-ways-to-dress-up-a-ceiling
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/5-creative-ways-to-dress-up-a-ceiling8 Laundry Room Updates to Fit Any Budget<p>Hoping to transform your tired laundry room into a sparkling clean, efficiently working space, but without the major costs of a full remodel? By not changing the layout or adding square feet, you can bring costs down while still making meaningful changes to your space. Use this guide to help you decide what to prioritize and what to put on the back burner, and give your laundry room an update that works with your space &mdash; whether your budget is $100 or $10,000.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4315/content_Laundry1.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 600px;" /></p>
<p><em>Laundry 1</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/sharonbarrettinteriors/sharon-barrett-interiors" target="_blank">Sharon Barrett Interiors</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $100:</strong> Clean, declutter and upgrade laundry baskets that have seen better days. It&rsquo;s worth spending a little more for hampers that can stand up to heavy use.</p>
<p>Also think about which features would be most helpful to have, such as hampers on wheels, triple-sorter bins <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/baskets" target="_blank">or stackable baskets</a> that can tuck out of the way when you&rsquo;re not using them.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4312/content_Laundry2.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Laundry 2</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/davidcharlezdesigns/david-charlez-designs" target="_blank">David Charlez Designs</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $300:</strong> Clean up, get hampers and then give the walls a fresh coat of paint. A cheerful color can make your laundry room feel brand-new without breaking the budget &mdash; especially if you&rsquo;re willing to DIY.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $500: </strong>Get hampers, fresh paint and then a soft new rug. You&rsquo;ll appreciate the dose of color as much as the softness underfoot. If moisture is a concern (for example, if your laundry room is in the basement), you may want to choose a sturdy indoor-outdoor rug.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4310/content_Laundry3.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 600px;" /></p>
<p><em>Laundry 3</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/acquireboutique/acquire" target="_blank">ACQUIRE</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $700: </strong>Get hampers, fresh paint and a new rug, and then swap out the lighting.</p>
<p>Ample lighting is important when you&rsquo;re trying to check laundry for stains and read labels, so pay attention to the recommended wattage of any light fixture you are considering &mdash; anything less than 75 watts may not shed enough light (especially if it&rsquo;s the sole light source in the room).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4311/content_Laundry4.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Laundry 4</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/cvidesign/cvi-design-carly-visser" target="_blank">CVI Design - Carly Visser</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $1,200: </strong>Tackle all the above, and then treat your space to some bonus storage and extras, like an ironing station, a drying rack or open shelves. If your laundry room is small, look for space-saving designs like folding drying racks, retractable clotheslines and wall-mounted ironing boards.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $3,500: </strong>What&rsquo;s next? <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/appliances" target="_blank">New appliances</a>! A new washer and dryer can work more efficiently than older models, operate more quietly and get your clothes cleaner.</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re going from top-loading to front-loading machines, consider adding a countertop above to hold supplies and act as a surface for folding. Not in the market for a new set? Give your old machines a thorough cleaning to keep them running well (and smelling fresh).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4313/content_Laundry5.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Laundry 5</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/colortheoryboston/colortheory-boston" target="_blank">colorTHEORY Boston</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $5,000:</strong> If you have more room in the budget, think about replacing the laundry room sink and faucet. If you&rsquo;re hoping to avoid additional installation costs, choose a new model that is the same size as the old one. If you don&rsquo;t already have a sink in the laundry room, adding one will require more extensive help from a plumber, and costs will be significantly more.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Related: <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/utility-sinks" target="_blank">Get a Sturdy Utility Sink for the Laundry Room</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4314/content_Laundry6.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p><em>Laundry 6</em>: <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/dinabandman/dina-bandman-interiors" target="_blank">Dina Bandman Interiors</a>, original photo on Houzz</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If your budget is about $10,000:</strong> So you have the hampers, paint, rug, lighting, storage, appliances and sink. If you still have room in the budget, think about tackling a bigger project like installing a new tile floor or a pet-washing station. Your furry friend may not thank you but sure will look cute sitting in that tub.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1729/thumb_Laundry1.jpg8 Laundry Room Updates to Fit Any Budgethttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/8-laundry-room-updates-to-fit-any-budget
Tue, 13 Feb 2018 11:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/8-laundry-room-updates-to-fit-any-budget
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/8-laundry-room-updates-to-fit-any-budgetDecorating Your Home in Ultra Violet: Pantone Color of The Year 2018<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4303/content_Pantone_Ultra_Violet.jpeg" style="width: 900px; height: 506px;" /></p>
<p>Each year, design pros eagerly await the Color of the Year announcement from the experts at <a href="https://www.pantone.com/" target="_blank">Pantone&reg;</a>. No matter what the hue, it&rsquo;s always sure to make a splash&mdash;and home goods are no exception. From appliances and d&eacute;cor to tile and paint, manufacturers will start rolling out options to match (and complement) the Pantone Color of the Year.</p>
<p>Pantone&reg; Ultra Violet is the pick for 2018. This is no shrinking violet: It&rsquo;s a deep blue-purple that isn&rsquo;t for the shy. No wonder that the Pantone announcement referenced icons known for showmanship like David Bowie, Prince and Jimi Hendrix.</p>
<p>Embracing a color this bold into your home might seem like a giant leap, but it could make a big mood difference in your home during the long, grey days of Seattle winters. We have assembled a few ways to incorporate Ultra Violet into your home &ndash; some large and some small.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4297/content_violet_door.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 824px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Make an Entrance</strong></p>
<p>Painting your front door adds instant curb appeal. Red&#39;s a classic hue and teal is an up-and-comer, but this entry&#39;s regal purple is a real knockout.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4298/content_violet_wall_2_.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 619px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Set the Scene</strong></p>
<p>Funny thing about purple: Though we tend to think of it as a scene-stealer, cooler shades in the blue-gray range can work almost like neutrals. Here, purple walls marry an eclectic mix of midcentury-inspired d&eacute;cor.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4299/content_purple_ceiling_.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 403px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Look Around</strong></p>
<p>You&#39;ve seen the accent wall. How about the accent ceiling? A rich grape hue adds an unexpected twist to this bedroom&#39;s gray walls and white trim. It gets extra punch from the peek of red seen through the doorway.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4300/content_violet_wall__002_.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 732px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Consider Texture and Sheen</strong></p>
<p>One secret to pulling off a jewel tone like these royal purple walls: Choose a matte finish. Shine plus color can be hard to pull off, but a flatter finish is, well, flattering.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4301/content_violet_furniture__004_.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 550px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Add Statement Furniture</strong></p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re planning on using Ultra Violet in a bedroom or living area, consider incorporating it in a piece of statement furniture. In this case, the piece will act as the focal point of the room, since it will undoubtedly capture plenty of attention. With that in mind, bed frames, ottomans and reading chairs are excellent options to fill this role.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4302/content_collage.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 232px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Opt for Accessories</strong></p>
<p>For those who are a bit nervous about jumping into a design full of intense shades, keep in mind that you can always incorporate Ultra Violet into your accessories. These are a great starting point because they generally include lower-cost items that can easily be replaced when your tastes change or if you decide you&rsquo;re not a big fan of the look.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1727/thumb_Pantone_Ultra_Violet.jpegDecorating Your Home in Ultra Violet: Pantone Color of The Year 2018http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/decorating-your-home-in-ultra-violet-pantone-color-of-the-year-2018
Fri, 09 Feb 2018 11:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/decorating-your-home-in-ultra-violet-pantone-color-of-the-year-2018
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/decorating-your-home-in-ultra-violet-pantone-color-of-the-year-2018Affordable Tips To Up Your Home’s Curb Appeal<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4253/content_classic_house_2.jpg" style="width: 800px; height: 526px;" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>You&rsquo;ll never have a second chance at a first impression, so let&rsquo;s make it count! When it comes to upping your home&rsquo;s curb appeal, there are plenty of small changes you can make that have a big impact. And best of all, you don&rsquo;t need to call in the pros or spend a fortune to get beautiful results. Below are some helpful and affordable tips.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4254/content_lawn_mower.jpeg" style="width: 800px; height: 530px; float: left;" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>A Well-Maintained Yard</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Mowing:</strong> The first step to a well-manicured lawn is to mow it regularly. The experts recommending mowing high because mowing it too short can damage the grass and allow weeds to set root.</p>
<p><strong>Weeds:</strong> To prevent weeds like crabgrass use a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring. These herbicides manage the weeds by stopping the seeds from sprouting in your lawn. Broadleaf weeds like dandelions can be stopped by applying granular weed control products.</p>
<p><strong>Feeding:</strong> Lawns consume mostly nitrogen, so look for mixes of fast and slow release fertilizers; they will feed your lawn over time while keeping it lush and green.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Watering: </strong>Nighttime watering can result in long spans of moisture on the blades, potentially exposing your grass to disease. Consider watering your lawn in the morning &ndash; the sun helps dry out the blades throughout the day.</p>
<p><strong>Flowers:</strong>&nbsp;You can quickly and affordably dress up your yard with colorful pre-made flower pots and containers. When placing your flower pots and containers remember that asymmetrical arrangements and staggering plants will provided the liveliest setting.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4255/content_front_door_of_house_with_porch.jpg" style="width: 800px; height: 666px; float: left;" /></p>
<p align="center">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Dress up the Front Door and Porch</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Paint:</strong> A fresh coat of paint in a pop color can give your home a well-deserved facelift. If you are hesitant to add a bright color to your front door, check out our article <a href="https://www.windermere.com/blogs/windermere/posts/energize-your-home-this-winter-with-bright-hues" target="_blank">Energize Your Home This Winter With Bright Hues</a><a class="attach_energize-your-home-this-winter-with-bright-hues" href="http://https://www.windermere.com/blogs/windermere/posts/energize-your-home-this-winter-with-bright-hues" title="energize-your-home-this-winter-with-bright-hues">.</a></p>
<p><strong>Replace Old Hardware:</strong> Clean off any dirty spots around the door knob, and use a metal polish on the fixtures. Change out house numbers for an updated feel, put up a wall-mounted mailbox, or add an overhead light fixture. Keep in mind that well thought through elements, instead of mix-and-match pieces, will add the most curb appeal.</p>
<p><strong>Create Perfect Symmetry:</strong> Symmetry is one of the simplest design techniques to master and is the most pleasing to the eye. Maintain symmetry by flanking your front door with two sidelights (just make sure that your hardware matches); find two urn planters or a unique visual detail to put on either side of your door.</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1719/thumb_classic_house_2.jpgAffordable Tips To Up Your Home’s Curb Appealhttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/affordable-tips-to-up-your-home-s-curb-appeal
Wed, 31 Jan 2018 15:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/affordable-tips-to-up-your-home-s-curb-appeal
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/affordable-tips-to-up-your-home-s-curb-appealCreating Comfort Through Interior Design<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4227/content_Hygge_Header.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 321px;" /></p>
<p>Just because the Christmas decor is put away and the festive mood of the holidays is over doesn&rsquo;t mean we have to stop creating a snug and cozy home. It&rsquo;s a good time to embrace winter <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygge" target="_blank">Hygge</a>! If you aren&rsquo;t familiar with Hygge, it&rsquo;s a Danish word for feeling content and cozy.</p>
<p>Here are seven ways to bring Hygge style comfort to your home, even during the dreariest winter month of the year!</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4228/content_Hygge_1.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></p>
<p>LAYERED LIGHTS</p>
<p>Even if you feel like you&rsquo;re lacking in the cozy department, simply addressing your lighting will make a huge difference. Layers of lighting make every room feel more welcoming. In the daytime, natural light is ideal. But for evenings, it&rsquo;s nice to add a cozy glow. A good rule of thumb is to try to have a least three light sources in every room. Use a mix of table lamps, floor lamps, task lamps, and overhead lighting. Consider using warmer lightbulbs for the coziest ambience.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4229/content_Hygge_2.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></p>
<p>COMFORTING MOMENTS</p>
<p>Your home will offer a sense of comfort when you incorporate some favorite photos of loved ones, treasured hand-me-downs, antiques or flea-market finds, eye-catching conversation starters, art that inspires you, special mementos, or simply things that make you smile.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4230/content_Hygge_3.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></p>
<p>AN INVITING AROMA</p>
<p>What aroma feels &lsquo;cozy&rsquo; to you? Set the tone for your home by filling it up with winter scents that inspire you.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4231/content_Hygge_4.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></p>
<p>TOUCHABLE TEXTURES</p>
<p>The coziest homes contain a variety different textures that delight the eye. Incorporate different touch-worthy materials through pillows, drapery, throw blankets, rugs, lamps, and furniture. The fabric possibilities are endless: velvet, woven, knit, embroidered, grain sack, faux fur, tweed, etc. You can also consider creating contrast with varying materials like metal, wood, glass, rattan, mirrored, painted, and more.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4232/content_Hygge_5.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></p>
<p>A PLACE TO CURL UP</p>
<p>Make yourself a special cozy place to relax. A reading chair will be extra cozy with some good books nearby in a basket, a lamp, a footstool, a side table to set a cup of tea, and a soft blanket you can curl up in.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4233/content_Hygge_6.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 306px;" /></p>
<p>A BIT OF WARMTH</p>
<p>Every home can benefit from warmth. No matter what your color scheme, you can add warmth through natural tones like wood, leather, jute, warm metals, etc.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/uploads/ckeditor_assets/2/pictures/4234/content_Hygge_7.JPG" style="width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></p>
<p>SOMETHING LIVING</p>
<p>A room comes to life when an organic element is incorporated into the decor. Every room can benefit from having at least one plant, bouquet of flowers, or even a sprig of greenery like eucalyptus to remind us that spring is on its way.</p>
windermerecentralia.com/uploads/blog_post_featured_images/blog_post/images/1711/thumb_Hygge_1.jpgCreating Comfort Through Interior Designhttp://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/creating-comfort-through-interior-design
Wed, 17 Jan 2018 11:00:00 -0800http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/creating-comfort-through-interior-design
http://windermerecentralia.com/blogs/windermere/posts/creating-comfort-through-interior-design